BPPV
Pronunciation: BEE-nyn puh-ROK-siz-mul puh-ZI-shun-ul VER-ti-goh
Also written as: BPPV — Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo; the most common vestibular disorder, characterised by brief episodes of vertigo triggered by specific head movements due to displaced otoconia in the semicircular canals.
Full Definition
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a mechanical inner ear disorder caused by the displacement of calcium carbonate crystals (otoconia) from the utricle into one or more semicircular canals, most often the posterior canal. Symptoms include short-lived but intense rotatory vertigo provoked by changes in head position. Diagnosis is confirmed using the Dix–Hallpike manoeuvre (for posterior and anterior canal BPPV) or the roll test (for horizontal canal BPPV), and treatment is via canalith repositioning procedures such as the Epley manoeuvre. Editors must note the correct hyphenation of compound test names (Dix–Hallpike uses an en dash between surnames) and should not describe BPPV as a 'hearing disorder,' as cochlear function is unaffected. The word 'benign' in the name refers to its non-life-threatening nature, not a trivial impact on quality of life.
Usage
Usage note: Use an en dash (–) between surnames in 'Dix–Hallpike.' Do not describe BPPV as a hearing loss condition. Spell out the full form at first use before introducing the acronym.
In Context
- "BPPV was diagnosed via a positive Dix–Hallpike test and treated with the Epley canalith repositioning manoeuvre." — Vestibular clinic letter
- "Note that BPPV affects balance rather than hearing; do not categorise it as a hearing disorder in editorial summaries." — Clinical audiology manuscript review note